Mohloai Mpesi
BOTHATA Mahlala, leader of the newly established Basotho Development Front (BDF), has vowed to eradicate the scourge of corruption that has plagued Lesotho for years.
The famous business tycoon and philanthropist spoke at a press conference on Thursday, after receiving the party’s registration certificate from the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) Headquarters in Maseru West.
BDF becomes the 47th political party registered with the IEC.
Party supporters came in large numbers to the IEC offices while chanting and singing praises of Mr Mahlala before a convoy led by the BDF party leader’s luxury vehicles proceeded to ‘Manthabiseng Convention Centre where he delivered a speech.
He blamed rampant corruption for Lesotho’s deteriorating infrastructure and sluggish socio-economic development.
According to the Corruption Perception Index (CPI) 2025, Lesotho scored 37 out of 100, dropping two points from 39 in 2023. The CPI ranks countries on a scale from 0 to 100, with 0 indicating extreme corruption and 100 representing minimal corruption. Ideally, countries should aim for higher scores which mean less corruption.
“When BDF takes government, we will dedicate ourselves to uprooting corruption in this country,” Mr Mahlala said.
“Lesotho’s failing infrastructure, poor health services, alarming crime rate, severe poverty, and breakdown of law and order are all consequences of corruption. BDF will dedicate itself as a weapon against this scourge.”
He pledged to strengthen oversight institutions such as the Directorate on Corruption and Economic Offences (DCEO), the Office of the Ombudsman, and the Auditor-General’s office, while also conducting lifestyle audits.
“BDF pledges to strengthen oversight institutions, enforce transparency, conduct lifestyle audits, and establish dedicated anti-corruption courts. Lifestyle audits will be central to our efforts.”
On transparency and accountability, Mr Mahlala said senior officials will be required to declare assets.
“We will digitalize procurement, publish budgets and expenditures openly, and require asset declarations from all senior officers.”
Mr Mahlala emphasised BDF’s commitment to combating crime and ensuring Lesotho becomes an investor-friendly country where people can live without fear.
“Lesotho is notoriously known for daily violent crimes, discouraging investors. We joined the political space aware of these challenges and are ready to address them when in government,” he said.
He said the BDF would tackle crimes like robberies, murders, carjackings, petty theft, livestock theft, and politically motivated demonstrations that escalate into violence.
The party will also institutionalise alternative dispute resolution to resolve cases efficiently and foster social harmony, he added.
“Functional law enforcement agencies capable of protecting people and property are fundamental for attracting domestic and foreign investment.
“First things first — we need to sweep our house before inviting visitors. We must ensure that investors view Lesotho as a safe country, where people are not afraid of being stabbed, robbed, or having their businesses destroyed.
“Lesotho is infamous for daily gun-related killings. That must end if we want our country to progress.”
Mr Mahlala further promised the BDF would reduce inequality, tackle unemployment, and improve healthcare services.
“BDF shall implement measures to overcome barriers, promote equal rights, and foster an inclusive society where everyone can thrive. This includes providing access to industry-relevant education that empowers Basotho to be job creators, not just job seekers, especially for women, youth, people with disabilities, and the elderly.”
He promised that if elected his party would stabilize the economy and ensure no Mosotho was left behind.
“When in government, BDF shall not merely be a regulator and consumer of taxes but will introduce a governance social business model as a catalyst for value creation, generating wealth and jobs for Basotho.”
On healthcare, he pledged accessible, affordable, and well-equipped services, especially in rural areas.
“Reducing waiting times, adequately staffing health centres, and ensuring they are equipped to serve everyone is our priority,” he said.
Mr Mahlala also promised to transform Lesotho’s political landscape.
“Today marks a monumental step for BDF in Lesotho’s politics. Our party’s registration certificate is a testament to the dedication of our team, who tirelessly devoted their time and resources to this achievement. With this certificate, we are legitimized and entrusted with the opportunity to bring meaningful change to the country’s political and socio-economic environment.
“We recognize that great opportunity comes with great responsibility. BDF’s commitment to clean, visionary, and people-centred politics begins now.
“Today we stand at the crossroads of change, where Basotho have the chance to choose a brighter future for all, not just a few. We see ourselves as humble servants of the people, not rulers of the electorate.”
He described the IEC certificate as symbolising the birth of a new political culture in Lesotho.
“Receiving this certificate is not just a formality; it represents hope, discipline, and transformation. We call on all Basotho: this is your party, this is your future, and this is your front for development. The politics of this country are hostile, and they need to be neutralized. They can only be neutralized by BDF. We should be the light of this country.
“BDF is going to be the government,” he said.